Explore the city’s sprawling network of bike lanes at your own pace.
This directory helps you find reliable bike rentals in Buenos Aires.
Discover various options, from hourly rentals for a quick tour of the parks to daily packages for more extensive exploration of different neighborhoods.
Buenos Aires offers excellent cycling opportunities for expats, with an extensive network of bike lanes (ciclovías) and both public and private rental options.
The city’s relatively flat terrain and growing cycling infrastructure make bikes an ideal way to explore neighborhoods like Palermo, Recoleta, and the ecological reserve along the waterfront.
Buenos Aires operates EcoBici, a public bike-sharing system with stations throughout the city. Residents and tourists can register online or through the BA EcoBici app using identification documents. The system allows rides up to one hour before requiring you to dock and take another bike. Private rental shops offer more flexibility with longer rental periods, ranging from hourly to weekly rates, and typically provide better-maintained bikes with options for mountain bikes, electric bikes, and touring models.
Private rental shops are concentrated in tourist-friendly areas like Palermo, San Telmo, and Puerto Madero. Many cater specifically to expats and tourists with English-speaking staff and accept credit cards. Most require a deposit or credit card hold and valid identification.
Buenos Aires traffic can be intense, and local driving culture differs significantly from North America or Europe. Cyclists should stay alert, use designated bike lanes when available, and avoid major avenues during rush hour. Biking is generally safer in parks and designated cycling areas like the Ecological Reserve or along the waterfront paths.
Key Spanish terms to know: alquiler de bicicletas (bike rental), ciclovía (bike lane), casco (helmet), candado (lock), and rodado (wheel size). Always confirm whether helmets and locks are included in your rental, as they may cost extra.
Book guided bike tours through reputable companies if you’re new to the city – they provide a safe introduction to cycling routes and local traffic patterns. For independent rentals, inspect bikes carefully before accepting them, checking brakes, gears, and tire condition. Take photos of any existing damage to avoid disputes.
Costs are generally affordable compared to European or North American cities, though prices vary based on bike quality and rental duration.
Weekend and holiday rentals may require advance booking during peak seasons. Many rental shops offer discounts for multi-day rentals, making bikes an economical option for expats who want flexible transportation without the commitment of purchasing.
